Other towns: Private Tour Cinque Terre and leaning tower of Pisa

Explore the stunning seaside towns of Cinque Terre and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa on this private tour departing from Montecatini Terme. Priced at $399.10 per person, this 9-hour experience offers a personalized way to see several highlights, including Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and the Pisa Piazza dei Miracoli. The tour provides a mix of walking, boat rides, and scenic drives, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day trip.

Known for its small group format and expert guides, this tour ensures an intimate experience and plenty of opportunities for photo stops. The inclusion of train tickets and boat tickets (when available) adds convenience, while pickup service from Montecatini Terme enhances the ease of planning. While the tour includes many highlights, it does not cover the Pisa Tower entrance fee, so visitors should plan accordingly.

This tour is best suited for moderate physical fitness individuals comfortable with walking and some boat riding. Its private setup is perfect for those looking for a flexible, personalized day exploring some of Italy’s most picturesque towns, combined with a quick visit to Pisa’s famous leaning tower.

Key Points

• Private 9-hour tour from Montecatini Terme featuring Cinque Terre and Pisa
• Includes scenic walks, boat rides, and drives through colorful seaside villages
• Visit Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• All transportation tickets included, with optional boat ride when available
• Guides are knowledgeable, with personalized attention
• No entrance fee for Pisa Tower; ticket not included

Starting Point and Pickup Convenience in Montecatini Terme

The tour begins at Piazza del Popolo in Montecatini Terme, with the guide meeting in front of the Santa Maria Assunta church. The pickup service is available, making it easy for travelers to begin their day without hassle. The meeting point is near public transportation, which helps optimize timing, especially for those staying in nearby accommodations. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, offering a straightforward end to the day.

Exploring the Coastal Charm of Manarola

The first significant stop is Manarola, a charming fishing village famous for its vibrant houses perched along the cliffs and marina. The tour includes a 50-minute walk down to the marina, where visitors can enjoy the colorful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere. No entrance fee is required, and the walk is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. The guide provides context about the town’s history and significance, making this a relaxing start to the day.

Vernazza: The Jewel of Cinque Terre

Next, the tour takes a boat ride to Vernazza, a highlight of the Cinque Terre region. The 1 hour 30 minutes spent here allows ample time to explore the seaside village, famous for its medieval castle and harbor views. The boat ride offers a different perspective of the rugged coastline and colorful towns. Visitors can enjoy free time to stroll, take photos, or sit in a local café, soaking in the authentic Ligurian vibe. The boat tickets are included when the service is available, adding a scenic element to the journey.

Corniglia’s Panoramic Views and Medieval Streets

After Vernazza, the tour drives to Corniglia, the only town in Cinque Terre not directly on the water. Known for its breathtaking vistas over the Ligurian Sea, Corniglia offers a 15-minute walk through its medieval streets. Visitors can take in spectacular views of the coastline and explore the town’s charming alleys. Though a brief stop, the scenery makes it a memorable part of the day, with no entrance fee required.

Scenic Drive Through Cinque Terre’s Colorful Towns

The combination of walking, boat rides, and scenic drives highlights the diverse ways to experience Cinque Terre. The tour’s pacing ensures that travelers get a taste of each town’s unique character without feeling rushed. The group size is kept small for a more personal experience, and guides provide local insights along the way.

Quick Stop at Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli

The final leg of the tour leads to Pisa for a 1-hour stop at the Piazza dei Miracoli. Here, visitors admire the Leaning Tower of Pisa, along with the cathedral and baptistery. This iconic landmark is a quick, yet memorable sight, perfect for photo opportunities. The entrance fee for the tower is not included, so it’s optional for those who want to go inside. The stop provides just enough time to appreciate the architecture and take pictures before heading back to Montecatini Terme.

Practical Details: Transportation and Inclusions

This tour includes train tickets, which facilitate moving efficiently between towns, and boat tickets when the boat service is available, offering a scenic alternative to land travel. Guests receive bottled water and soda/pop during the day, refreshing after walking or during boat rides. The private nature of the tour means your group enjoys exclusive attention from the guide, with the flexibility to customize or focus on particular interests.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants should have moderate physical fitness due to walking, boat rides, and some uphill or uneven terrain, especially in towns like Corniglia. The tour is suitable for most who can manage a typical day of sightseeing, though it’s not designed for those with significant mobility challenges.

Versatility and Personalization

What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. The private group setting allows guides to tailor the experience, answer questions, and accommodate specific interests. The inclusion of scenic walks, boat rides, and a drive offers a well-rounded view of the region without being overly strenuous.

Review Highlights: Expert Guides and Scenic Variety

Based on positive feedback, guides like Benjamin and Simon are praised for their promptness, courteousness, and knowledgeable commentary. Guests appreciate the attention to detail, from train tickets to door opening assistance. The scenic views, particularly from the boat and in towns like Corniglia, receive high marks, making the effort worthwhile.

Pricing and Booking Considerations

At $399.10 per person, this private experience provides a comprehensive day with scenic sightseeing, transportation, and guided commentary. Most bookings are made about 101 days in advance, indicating a good level of interest. The tour is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing for some peace of mind when planning.

Final Thoughts on the Private Cinque Terre and Pisa Tour

This tour offers an enjoyable, relaxed way to discover some of Italy’s most picturesque towns, combined with the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Its private format suits those who value customized attention and a slower pace. The combination of walking, boat rides, and scenic drives makes for a varied and engaging day.

While it doesn’t include Pisa’s tower entrance fee, the overall value lies in the expert guides, scenic variety, and convenient logistics. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate small group experiences and want to explore multiple locations comfortably in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but participants should have moderate physical fitness due to walking and boat rides. It’s best for those comfortable with some uphill walking in towns like Corniglia.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include meals, but it allows time for lunch in Vernazza or other towns. You can explore local cafes during free time.

Is the boat ride included?
Yes, boat tickets are included when the boat service is available, providing a scenic alternative to land travel between Cinque Terre towns.

Can I visit the inside of the Pisa Tower?
No, the entrance fee for the Leaning Tower is not included, so entry is optional. The stop mainly offers a quick view and photo opportunity.

How early should I book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 3 months in advance, especially during peak season, to secure availability and preferred dates.

This private tour from Montecatini Terme offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and convenience, making it a memorable way to experience Italy’s coastal treasures.